Raspberry Pi: Feeding the Computer Scientist in Everyone

Dr. Robert Mullins

Computer Laboratory, University of Cambridge St. John’s College Raspberry Pi Foundation

Abstract

The increasing ease with which we are able to interact with computers suggests to many that a deeper understanding of them has become redundant. This lecture will argue that the opposite is true and that the ability to harness the tools that computer science provides is increasingly advantageous. Considering such tools and skills as specialist is unreasonable as computer science contributes to ever more human endeavours. Furthermore, continuing to withhold such knowledge risks sacrificing the potential growth, creativity and efficiency that it would no doubt release. The Raspberry Pi computer aims to provide an ideal environment for experimenting with programming and electronics. We believe that this low-cost, credit-card sized computer will encourage many to acquire the skills to be able to fully control, adapt and exploit the digital world. Dr Mullins will also demonstrate the Raspberry Pi itself and outline some of the interesting projects that plan to incorporate it.

Biography

Dr. Robert Mullins is a Lecturer in the Computer Laboratory at the University of Cambridge and a Fellow of St. John’s College. He is also a co-founder and trustee of the Raspberry Pi Foundation, a UK charity that aims to promote the study of computer science and electronics at the school level.